Wearable Gadgets That Won’t Take a Big Bite out of Your Pockets

Wearable technology has been steadily on the rise in recent years, with products ranging from health and fitness trackers to wearable cameras. You’ve probably noticed the changing tides and trends in personal devices, and the integration of new technology into traditional pieces like watches and headphones. It’s no coincidence that wearable technology is evolving at such a rapid rate; a recent report from Business Insider estimates that the global market for wearable technology will continue to grow at a rate of 35 percent per year over the next five years, with Statista predicting the market value at 12.6 billion dollars by 2018. With phenomenal figures like these, it’s no wonder that wearable technology is taking the world by storm.

While it may seem like a lot of these gadgets are on the pricey side, you might be surprised to find a range of affordable options out there, with many of these modestly priced devices boasting high quality and impressive performance levels on par with their expensive counterparts. Here’s a look at some of the most popular types of wearable gadgets, as well as some specific brands and models that won’t leave a hole in your wallet.

Fitness Tracker Flexibility

According to PCMag, now is the time to choose a wearable fitness tracker, as there are never been quite so many options as there is today on the market. While you may be familiar with some of the pricier and popular models, like the original FitBit or Nike Fuel Band, you can find many of the same features for, in some cases, almost half the price. The Jawbone UP MOVE, Fitbit Zip, and Misfit Flash are just a few of the more affordable, highly rated everyday fitness trackers out there.

All of them are priced under $75, and all of them are quite literally ready to record your every move. These devices track steps and calories and often include other features accessible via apps that sync with your devices. The Jawbone UP MOVE for example also tracks your sleep. There’s no better time than now to get yourself in shape; fitness trackers make it easy, fun, and even fashionable, as many of the wristband models come in a variety of colors and styles.

Sharing the World Through Your Eyes

A wearable camera is a must-have piece of gear for any traveler or extreme sports enthusiast. There is little doubt that the Panasonic HX-A1 wearable action video camera can’t be topped when it comes to exceptional quality in hardware design. This camera is lightweight, durable, waterproof, and ready to endure your most intense adventures, in the midst of the action alongside you.

With a wide range of mounts and accessories, you’ll find a way to get the right angle, no matter what it is you’re trying to capture. This action camera is designed to have no interference with your movement, to withstand all types of weather, and to easily share your footage via the social media venue of your choice. With this affordable, high-quality model, the means to share your unique experiences are now more within your reach than ever.

A Smarter Way to Listen to Music

Smart headphones can take the pleasure of listening to music to new levels with a variety of high-tech, convenient features. While some of the more stylish, top selling smart headphones out there might certainly empty your pockets, there are many affordable, equally durable options out there.

You might want to take a look at another one of Panasonic’s products: their Bluetooth Wireless Headphones (currently $79.99). These wireless headphones easily pair with your wireless device, can seamlessly accept calls, and also have the added convenience of a built-in rechargeable battery. The lack of wires and their folding design makes them hassle free when it comes to storage and portability, and you won’t have to worry about missing a call on your phone while getting absorbed in your favorite tunes.

Selecting a Smartwatch

You’re, undoubtedly, familiar with the Apple Watch, which remains one of the most widely recognized and highest selling smart watches on the market. But did you know that the Pebble Smartwatch (only $99) is compatible with most iOS and Android devices, connecting via Bluetooth and keeping notifications quite literally close at hand?

Pebble offers built-in fitness tracking as well, and allows you to see who is calling, texting, or emailing you, without having to dig around for your phone. Despite the ranges in price, most smartwatches out there offer the same basic functions to make your life easier. If you can forego a few extra bells and whistles, an affordable smartwatch can also be within your reach.

Shopping Smart Doesn’t Mean Being Left Behind

With the production of wearable technology on such an upswing, it’s easier than you think to find the right gadget to introduce into your everyday arsenal. Even if you’re on a budget, there are still a variety of affordable devices to explore and choose from, boasting quality, functionality, and user-friendly interfaces alongside wallet-friendly prices.